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In bygone days, it was thought that a sea voyage was good for what ails you.

Believing that sea air and the motion on the ocean had restorative qualities, days or weeks at sea were prescribed as a proverbial cure-all.

While it might be tough these days to have a doctor prescribe that remedy, there is something to be said for sailing away from the stress and strains of daily life.

Cruising doesn’t have to just be about overindulging at the around-the-clock, all-you-want buffets or simply lounging by the poolside bars.

“For years, there has been a misconception that going on a cruise meant leaving your healthy living regimen at home,” said Cindy D’Aoust, acting CEO of Cruise Lines International Association.

Cruisers will find a variety of options to “customize their experience” with a focus on health, relaxation and indulgence, she added.

Health-conscious travellers can find specialty cruises aimed at well-being and rejuvenating spa treatments to stay fit and healthy while at sea.

Here is a sample of healthful living offerings available on cruises, starting with food and drink.

Cuisine options are plentiful on cruise ships as travellers can opt for choices to accommodate every diet.

These include gluten-free and low-carb to vegan and buffets that are full of locally sourced fruits, vegetables and lean proteins.

Cunard makes it easy for cruisers to opt for spa cuisine as the Queen Mary 2 offers a menu created in collaboration with Canyon Ranch that uses quality carbs, a balance of protein, healthy fats and is free of artificial sweeteners.

Ama Waterways helps passengers stay healthy and hydrated with fruit-infused waters offered throughout the ships to help travellers boost their daily antioxidant intake.

MSC Cruises offers diners lighter, healthful choices at every meal complete with caloric values making it easy to stay focused.

Get up and go

For those looking to step outside of the gym, they can make the most of cruise decks for morning walks or jogs, as well as finding active ways to see the sights while in port.

Ama Waterways carries 25 complimentary bicycles aboard its European ships for cruisers to explore the scenes independently or on escorted bike tours.

This includes rides along the Inn River in Passau, Germany and to Klosterneuburg Abbey in Vienna, Austria.

Cruise lines offer some of the best fitness programs and activities as well as opportunities to experience land-based excursions to stay fit.

Norwegian Cruise Line brings some of the most sought-after, land-based fitness options to sea, including Flywheel, boxing, yoga, TRX and bootcamp.

For soak, scrub and sparkle pampering, cruises are among the best places to indulge with some of the most luxurious spa treatments.